Gamecocks rising for Louisiana OL

South Carolina is making a charge in the race for one of the South's top offensive line prospects.

Three-star Lafayette (La.) St. Thomas More tackle Geoff Berniard took his official visit with the Gamecocks this weekend and came away impressed.

“It was really cool,” he said. “I enjoyed touring all their facilities, spending some more time with coach Holtz and getting to know some of the players and other recruits who were down there. I met a lot of good people.

“It was the third time I’ve got to meet with coach Holtz, and every time it keeps getting better and better. He’s such an interesting person. I don’t see how anyone could be recruited by the man and not seriously think about playing for him.”

Berniard (6-8, 320, 5.4) will visit Florida State next weekend. He says he’ll likely choose between the Seminoles and Gamecocks shortly after that trip. He also made a visit to Tulane, which remains a darkhorse.

“Florida State has been in the lead, and they still have a little bit of an advantage,” he said, “but South Carolina is making up ground pretty fast.

“I’m going to base my decision on the coaches, my interaction with them and the other players, and how I fit into their plans. I’ll just have to find out where I’m most comfortable.”